Southport to the Bus Yard at Another Place

On leaving Southport we head south/west towards Ainsdale, passing Woodvale Air Field and onto Formby. The route then passes through Little Crosby and Waterloo to our cafe stop at The Bus Yard adjacent to Crosby Marine lake. The return route will be via Hightown, Altcar, Freshfield, Ainsdale Sands Nature Reserve (weather permitting) and the Coastal Path back to Southport.

A day mostly spent by the seaside this week as we travel from Southport on a coastal route to the Anthony Gormley Statues known as Another Place (or locally as the Iron Men) at Crosby Beach. Weather permitting we will take our refreshment stop at The Bus Yard, a quirky cafe and beach bar close to Crosby Marina.

Mostly on hard surface main roads and cycle paths but there will be stretches en route where the surface may be of compacted stone and loose gravel. If we decide to take the return route via Ainsdale Sands Nature Reserve (weather permitting) the paths, whilst suitable for most bikes, can sometimes be carpetted with pine needles and cones and extra care is required..

We will take our refreshment stop at The Bus Yard cafe and bar close to Crosby Marina with great views over the River Mersey Estuary. Remember to bring along some money for a 'coffee and cake'. If you prefer, bring a packed lunch and enjoy the spectacular views of the river and the 'Iron Men'.

All riders will be required to wear a helmet and carry spare inner tubes and the means to be able to repair a puncture (assistance will be provided if required). This is mostly a coastal route so be prepared and wear (or carry) appropriate clothing for 'all seasons' cycling!

It is essential that everybody enjoys the ride which will be at an average pace of 9-11 mph but the average speed will be determined by the overall pace of the group. Please ensure that you can cope with a 30-35 mile bike ride at this pace. Always remember though, we will never leave anyone behind! Plenty of photo opportunities on this ride and there will be frequent stops to take in some of the coastal views.